What I Learned in April

Once again, I’m totally in shock that April is over.  I probably say something like this every month, but for some reason April really went by quickly.  In an effort to look back and reflect on what I’ve learned every month, I’m once again linking up with Emily Freeman to re-cap the funny, random, insignificant turned memorable, and sometimes serious things that have gone on in my heart and mind.

1. Spring in Virginia is stunning.  Yes, I grew up in Virginia, but not this part, and I haven’t lived here in the spring since 1999, so I had forgotten.  Maybe it was the long-ish winter, but seeing all of the green on the trees, flowering plants, and life that is emerging from my flower beds has me standing in awe of the signs of God.  He does wondrous deeds and it’s always a privilege to watch the creativity of God in nature.

2. This stuff?  It’s delicious.  And I have totally convinced myself that the raisins make it healthy and the peanuts (and peanut butter M&M’s) provide some of my daily requirements for protein.  Also, it doesn’t matter that it says there are 11 servings.

3. Reading novels is the best thing for me to do before bed.  I had taken a hiatus from most fictional books, somewhat intentionally, for the past year or so.  But after reading this post and this post I decided to take a trip to the library and check out some books that had been recommended by people I admire.  I’m totally captivated by this one.

4. Netflix has some pretty incredible documentaries on nature.  Our family has taken to watching some of these post-dinner/pre-bedtime and we’ve been able to virtually travel the world, learning about animals and their habitats.  Last night we watched one about the African desert and how the rain eventually floods into the dry basin, providing water for the herds who had been living in desolation for months on end.  The way God orchestrated all of this just by speaking words as He created the Earth is astounding.  The kids are learning a lot, and we’re able to talk with them about our great God and His amazing deeds.

5. These two little monkeys can’t be left alone.  On the one hand, I’m thankful they are learning how to do things.  On the other hand, I worry about their safety.  I found them both on the top bunk the other morning after I had been making some phone calls.  They are best friends and I love watching them together.  They also might give me a heart attack.

6. Our kids are pretty awesome.  Of course I’m biased–what parent isn’t?  And they disobey, whine, argue and sometimes drive me nuts.  BUT, we’ve entered into the season of therapy for Mason once again.  Right now, this means four mornings a week he either has physical, occupational or speech therapy for up to an hour and a half.  It’s a lot of work for him, and one day this week he refused to participate.  It’s also work for the girls as they spend that time sitting in a waiting room.  They are handling it like champs, though.  And I’m trying to think of ways to use that time creatively. (Any ideas would be much appreciated!)  This is one of the aspects of being a special needs Mom that makes me tired.  Not just because of the driving around and trying to entertain children.  But also because I want to do what’s best for all of our kids.  At any given time that probably means someone has to sacrifice.  We’re praying for wisdom and grace.

7. The Cozy Minimalist course has changed the way I approach my home.  And it can change yours too!  Read yesterday’s post to learn how you can now take this course at your own pace, for just $39, or $29 if you enter “Lauren Washer” at check-out.  Your home will thank you!

There are other things that I’ve learned this month, but I haven’t been able to articulate them in my heart and mind.  So, once I do, I’ll probably share some things in this space.  Until then, I’ll leave you with these verses that I read this morning from Psalm 66:

“For you, O God, have tested us; you have tried us as silver is tried.  You brought us into the net; you laid a crushing burden on our backs; you let men ride over our heads; we went through fire and through water; yet you have brought us to a place of abundance.” 

What did you learn in April?